Downloading FLAC files is generally better than MP3 downloads in terms of audio quality, but it depends on what you’re prioritizing. Here’s a breakdown of the differences:

1. Audio Quality
FLAC: FLAC is a lossless format, which means it compresses audio without losing any quality. This preserves the original sound exactly as it was intended to be heard, offering higher fidelity.
MP3: MP3 is a lossy format, which means some audio data is discarded during compression to reduce file size. While high-bitrate MP3 files (e.g., 320 kbps) can sound quite good, they still lose some detail compared to the original recording.

2. File Size
FLAC: The trade-off for better sound quality is larger file size. FLAC files are usually significantly larger than MP3s. A typical song in FLAC can be 20-30 MB or more.
MP3: MP3 files are much smaller, typically around 3-10 MB per song depending on the bitrate. This makes them more suitable for portable devices with limited storage or when data consumption is a concern.

3. Compatibility
FLAC: While many modern devices and apps support FLAC (like VLC, high-end smartphones, or music players like Foobar2000), it’s still less universally compatible than MP3.
MP3: MP3 is widely supported on virtually every device, from smartphones to car stereos.

4. Use Case
FLAC: Ideal if you’re an audiophile or want to store music in the highest quality possible for future use, such as converting to other formats without losing quality.
MP3: More convenient for casual listening, portable devices, or situations where storage or bandwidth is limited.

5. Storage & Bandwidth
FLAC: Requires more storage and higher data speeds if you’re downloading or streaming.
MP3: More efficient with storage and bandwidth, making it better for everyday mobile use.

Conclusion:
If audio quality is your priority and you have the storage space, FLAC is the superior choice. However, if you’re more concerned about file size, compatibility, or casual listening, MP3 is still a very good option.